Good morning, Ocala.

The annual Light Up Ocala will kick off the holiday season on Nov.

22 from 3 to 8 p.m. downtown—thousands will gather for a switch-flip lighting ceremony with live entertainment and the Junior Sunshine Parade.

The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County announced nominations are open for the Inspire Gala awards that honor local nonprofits, businesses and individuals for their charitable leadership.

Nominations can be submitted online or by mail until Jan. 15 and the gala will be held on March 7 at Circle Square Cultural Center.

Residents in Ocala have submitted letters with mixed opinions about a proposed Home Depot in the southwest area—some worry that increased traffic and noise will harm local quality of life while others suggest new development be directed to less congested parts—with requests for buffer walls and updated traffic studies.

Market Street at Heath Brook Mall is changing as two new stores will open soon—while one store has closed—and the retail mix shifts for shoppers.

Market Street at Heath Brook Mall is adding two new stores as one tenant left ahead of the holiday shopping season.

Mall management said the change will better balance the mix of retailers — offering local shoppers a refreshed selection.

Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon is hosting a reception on Nov.

21 from 5 to 7 p.m. to introduce new painters who work with flowers, colors, textures, abstract shapes and mermaids — including Columbian-American artist Daniela Maria Voce, who draws on her roots for inspiration.

Marion County recorded 6,222 deaths and 3,945 births last year—as part of updated vital statistics from the Florida Department of Health—and ranked 16th statewide, with 2,528 marriages and 1,165 divorces also reported.

Marion County officials will vote today at 9 a.m. at the McPherson Governmental Complex on a rezoning request for Drake Ranch at 13210 SW Highway 200 in Dunnellon.

The proposal plans 40 one-acre lots with recreational and agricultural amenities on a 407-acre site.

Florida football interim coach Billy Gonzales said that receiver Vernell Brown III and defensive tackle Caleb Banks are game-time decisions for the game against No. 20 Tennessee on Nov.

22 at 7:30 p.m. at The Swamp—Brown missed two games with a shoulder sprain while Banks had foot surgery after playing in only one game, and both are working to return to practice before the matchup.

Paso Fino Fall Festival

8 AM – 11 PM — Florida Horse Park — Admission details not provided — Experience an exciting day of Paso Fino horse shows with food, music, and family fun.

Brown's Christmas Market 2025

10 AM – 4 PM — Brown & Brown Farms and Country Store — Free park and shop — Enjoy a festive market filled with unique gifts, crafts, and fun activities for kids.

A Tuna Christmas Live Performance

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket information available — Experience the festive comedy that brings laughter to the holiday season.

Symphony Under the Lights

7:30 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Free entry — Enjoy a joyful outdoor concert performed by the Ocala Symphony and Youth Symphony under festive lights.

Ocala Holiday Market & Food Festival

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion — Free entry — Enjoy a festive day filled with unique crafts, delicious food, and fun activities for the whole family.

A Tuna Christmas

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a hilarious holiday celebration with beloved characters returning to spread joy.

9th Annual Florida Thoroughbred Transformation Expo

7 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Florida Horse Park — $25 entry — Discover diverse equine talents at a weekend filled with competitions and prizes for thoroughbreds.

The Nutcracker Ballet

7-8:30 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Family-friendly event — Experience the enchanting story of Clara and the Nutcracker in a magical ballet performance.

Free Movie: Wicked for Good

2-5 p.m. — Epic Theatres of Ocala — Free entry — Experience the magic of Oz in the beloved story of friendship and courage.